COVINGTON - The Hispanic Resource Center hopes to raise more than $20,000 at its annual fund-raiser Saturday.

The event at The Madison features a silent auction, Hispanic cuisine and music by the 12-piece Salsa Caliente Band, the region's top Latino music group. "Community Amigos'' who have contributed to the center's success and Hispanic outreach also will be recognized. The event will be from 7 p.m. to midnight.

The mission of the Hispanic Resource Center is to foster community acceptance, understanding and integration of the Hispanic community in Greater Cincinnati. Operated by Gilberto "Gil'' Esparza, the center helps local Spanish-speaking people with translation and interpretation services, advocacy, job training and placement, referral services and community outreach and education.

Advance reservations are requested by calling (859) 261-1498.

Schmaedecke elected head of ethics panel

COVINGTON - Retired Kenton District Judge William Schmaedecke was elected chairman of the Kenton County Ethics Commission at its recent organizational meeting.

Other officers are vice chairman, Marsha Israel; secretary, Rev. John Russell, and commission members Jeffery Landen and Michael Moffitt.

The commission will next meet at 4 p.m. Jan. 12 in room 205 on the second floor of the Kenton County Administration Building in Covington.